Hi Martin, I would guess that your ancestor was a seaman in the Merchant Navy as opposed to the Royal Navy. Regards Jennifer MacPherson. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Martin Beveridge" <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Saturday, September 08, 2001 11:55 AM Subject: [RossGen] Occupation question > I was wondering if anyone can tell me what exactly is a "Seaman-Merchant Service". My GG Grandfather, Alexander MacDonald is listed as such on his sons marriage certificate in 1878 in Tain. > >